About
As a skilled Internist / Geriatrician, Dr. Peter Michael Bakker offers expert diagnostic services and management for a wide range of adult health issues. Practicing in Thunder Bay, ON, he serves the surrounding communities with a warm and community-focused approach. Dr. Bakker provides comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, adhering strictly to the standards and ethical guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). His focus is on delivering personalized, compassionate healthcare to improve the quality of life for his patients.
Dr. Bakker graduated with a Medical Degree from McMaster University in 2009. He completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including residency in Internal Medicine and specialized fellowships in Geriatric Medicine. His training equips him with in-depth knowledge and skills to manage complex adult and senior health conditions effectively, ensuring the highest standards of medical practice.
His clinical philosophy is centered on warmth, respect, and community engagement. Dr. Bakker is dedicated to building trusting relationships with his patients and their families, emphasizing clear communication and shared decision-making. He speaks English fluently and is committed to serving the Thunder Bay community with a heartfelt dedication to patient-centered care.
Dr. Bakker provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions
- Management of Select Rheumatologic Conditions: Care for common inflammatory conditions such as gout or polymyalgia rheumatica, or initial assessment for suspected autoimmune diseases.
- Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) Workup: Systematic investigation to determine the cause of prolonged, unexplained fevers.
- Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic conditions.
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease: Diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for conditions affecting bone strength and metabolism.
- Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.
- Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.
Management of Chronic Diseases
- Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2): Comprehensive management including glucose control strategies, complication prevention, and patient education.
- Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol): Assessment and management of abnormal lipid levels through lifestyle advice and medication to reduce cardiovascular risk.
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Diagnosis, treatment titration, and long-term management of primary and secondary hypertension to mitigate cardiovascular risk.
Dr. Bakker manages a wide range of complex adult and geriatric health conditions. This list highlights common areas of focus. If your condition is not listed, please note that internal medicine specialists address diverse and often multi-systemic diseases. Consultation is typically initiated via referral from your primary care physician.
- Medication Review and Optimization (Deprescribing): Systematic review of all medications (polypharmacy) to ensure appropriateness, minimize side effects and interactions, and deprescribe unnecessary drugs.
- Driving Safety Assessment Consultation (Medical): Evaluating medical fitness to drive in older adults, considering cognitive, sensory, and physical factors.
- Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessment: In-depth evaluation for adults with complex, unclear, or multi-system medical conditions, involving detailed history, physical examination, and coordination of necessary investigations.
- Advance Care Planning Discussions: Facilitating conversations about future healthcare preferences and goals of care, including discussions about powers of attorney for personal care.
- Geriatric Psychiatry Liaison Support: Assessing and managing mood disorders (like depression, anxiety) and behavioral changes often associated with dementia or other conditions in older adults.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Bakker. As a specialist in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, he provides comprehensive diagnostic and management services. For specific inquiries about whether your condition falls within Dr. Bakker's scope of practice, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).
Dr. Bakker's practice is located in the vibrant Port Arthur Central (Downtown North Core, Waterfront area) neighborhood of Thunder Bay. The office is situated within the London Health Sciences Centre, providing easy access for patients from the Intercity Area. The location is conveniently accessible via Thunder Bay Transit, ensuring transportation options for all patients. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Bakker? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Bakker are typically covered by your provincial health insurance (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)) when you present a valid health card and have the required referral. You generally do not pay directly for the consultation service itself. Some specific procedures, forms, or administrative tasks might not be covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) and may incur a separate fee according to provincial guidelines. Please inquire if you have questions about uninsured services.
- Can I book an appointment directly or do I absolutely need a referral?
- A referral from your family physician or another medical specialist is required to see Dr. Bakker. As experts in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, Internists and Geriatricians see patients based on specific medical questions posed by the referring doctor. This ensures continuity of care and that the consultation is appropriate for your needs. Please have your doctor forward the referral information.
- What is the appointment cancellation policy?
- We understand that unforeseen circumstances arise. If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please provide at least 24-48 hours notice so we can offer the time slot to another patient waiting for consultation. Failure to provide sufficient notice may result in a missed appointment fee (if applicable per clinic policy). Please contact the office directly to make changes.
- Does Dr. Bakker handle prescription refills?
- Generally, ongoing prescription refills should be managed through your family doctor (primary care provider). Dr. Bakker will make initial recommendations or adjustments, but routine refills are best handled by your family doctor who manages your overall care, unless specific arrangements are made for certain specialized medications.
- What happens after the initial consultation?
- After your assessment, Dr. Bakker will typically send a detailed consultation report with findings and recommendations to your referring physician. Depending on your specific situation and the reason for referral, Dr. Bakker may arrange follow-up appointments, order further tests, or transition care management back to your family doctor with specialist guidance. The plan will be discussed with you.
London Health Sciences Centre
Division of Hematology, 35 Algoma Street North, Victoria Hospital
Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5G7
Phone: (807) 346-2310
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Bakker is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. Patients are typically seen by referral from their primary care physician.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/de-Bakker-Peter-Michael/0291096-102315